Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Univ. of Washington, Beijing School to Launch New Tech Institute

From sustainability to clean energy to transportation, academic institutions are striving to address the major issues facing the planet in the 21st century.

That’s why the University of Washington and a university in China are partnering to create a U.S.-based graduate institute that will enable students to explore ways to use technology and innovation in tackling some of these global challenges. Called the Global Innovation Exchange, or GIX, the institute (which is also backed by a $40 million donation from Microsoft) will open to a few dozen students from both countries next fall.The Seattle Times reported last week that UW’s partnership with Tsinghua University of Beijing marks the first time a Chinese research university “has established a physical presence in the United States.” Courses will be taught in English by faculty from the two universities, and students can expect to earn a master’s degree in 15 months. At least two other international institutions are also expected to join the partnership down the line, and the institute could enroll 3,000 students in the next decade, the Seattle Times reports.

“Uniting students with faculty, professionals, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs from a variety of disciplines will foster expansive thinking and better prepare a generation of leaders with a passion for discovery and the ability to be nimble,” UW Interim President Ana Mari Cauce said in a UW press release.